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What Is a Sprained Toe?

A sprained toe is a very common foot injury that can affect anyone at any time. The more frequent causes tend to be stubbing the toe or injuring it during a sporting activity. A sprained toe means torn ligaments, and this can hinder completing daily activities, not to mention the pain and discomfort that often coincides. Sprained toes are classified into three categories and the healing time is governed by which area they fall into. A mild sprain takes the least amount of time to heal, and the patient may be fully recovered within two weeks. The ligaments may be partially torn in a moderate sprain, and the toe may be unstable. The healing time with this type of sprain can extend to up to five weeks. The full healing time with a severe sprain can take six weeks or longer, and can require the most amount of care. If you have a sprained toe it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose the severity of your injury and guide you toward proper treatment techniques.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact James Kutchback, DPM from Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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How Do I Measure My Feet for Running Shoes?

Measuring your feet to find the right sized running shoes for you can be accomplished in several easy steps. First, measure your foot by placing it flat on the floor over a piece of paper. Draw a thin line along the outside of your foot to produce a foot tracing. Using a ruler, measure vertically down the length of the foot tracing to determine your foot length. Then, measure the foot tracing across the widest part to determine your foot width. Repeat these steps with the opposite foot, as your feet can actually be two different sizes. The larger foot will determine which size shoes you should buy. For more information about finding the right size shoes, consult with a podiatrist. 

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact James Kutchback, DPM from Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

  • Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
  • Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
  • Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
  • Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
  • Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Hammertoe Affects Toe Joints

The foot condition that is known as hammertoe is often noticeable, and easily diagnosed. It typically affects the middle joints of the second or third toe, causing the joint to bend upward and the toes to bend downward. This condition often develops gradually due to genetic factors and from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. It is helpful to wear a larger size shoe that can accommodate the hammertoe, and mild relief may be found when a protective pad is worn over the affected joint. Corns may form on the top of the joint from friction that can come from the shoes that are worn. If you have hammertoe, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat this condition.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact James Kutchback, DPM of Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

  • Painful and/or difficult toe movement
  • Swelling
  • Joint stiffness
  • Calluses/Corns
  • Physical deformity

Risk Factors

  • Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
  • Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
  • Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
  • Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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How Feet Are Affected by Diabetes

Excessive sugar levels in the bloodstream may lead to a condition that is known as diabetes. Patients who have this condition are generally aware of the complications that may develop with their feet. These can include poor circulation, nerve damage, and the immune system may be compromised. Foot ulcers may develop as a result of the inability to feel cuts and wounds on the feet, and this could lead to possible amputation if not monitored closely. Practicing daily foot care may help to prevent unwanted foot conditions from developing. This can consist of inspecting the feet on a daily basis, washing the feet in warm water, and ensuring the glucose levels in the blood are within a normal range. If you have diabetes, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine the most effective treatment method for you.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact James Kutchback, DPM from Kutchback Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in The Woodlands and Woodville, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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